Dead tooth does not receive a fresh supply of blood. It is important to note that the teeth are comprised of a combination of soft and hard tissue. In case the nerves in the pulp of the tooth are damaged due to decay or injury, blood is no longer supplied to the tooth.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xx6nBKb-H70
What are the indications?
A dead tooth might show discoloration as an initial sign. There is also pain or discomfort in the tooth or gums.
A discolored tooth that is dying is different than the rest of the teeth. It might appear yellow, gray, light brown or even black. It might even appear that the tooth is bruised. The discoloration might increase over time as it continues to decay and the nerve dies.
Pain or achiness is another sign. Some do not feel any pain. Other experience mild pain while others have intense discomfort. The pain is often triggered by the dying nerve but can also be caused by an infection.
Management of a dead tooth
A dead tooth must be treated right away. If left untreated, the bacteria from the dead tooth might spread and lead to further loss of tooth. It can also affect the gums and jawbone.
The dentist might perform root canal. In some cases, the entire tooth is removed.
Root canal
During the procedure, the tooth might be left intact. The dentist will create an opening into the tooth and utilizes small instruments to remove the pulp and clean out the infection. Once the infected area is removed, the dentist will fill and seal the roots and apply a permanent filling.
Tooth removal or extraction
In case the tooth is significantly damaged and could not be restored, the dentist might suggest full removal of the dead tooth. During the process, the tooth is removed by the dentist. After extraction, the dead tooth is replaced with a denture, implant or bridge.
Pain management
If there is severe pain, some measures that can provide relief include:
- Avoid any warm or hot beverages since they can worsen the inflammation
- An over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drug can be given
- Avoid hard foods since the force of biting down can worsen the damaged nerves
FACT CHECK
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319062.php
https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/dead-tooth
http://www.deltadentalma.com/your-oral-health/articles/a-means-of-saving-a-dead-tooth/